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Dordt College News

Kooistra awarded 2003 Bush Leadership Fellowship

Martin Kooistra, a Dordt College alumnus, is among 22 people selected to receive a 2003 Bush Leadership Fellowship. Kooistra, Class of ’91, is a Content and Knowledge Manager (U.S.) for Habitat for Humanity University.

“I hope to serve Habitat for Humanity communities by developing innovative solutions to local housing issues,” said Kooistra, who grew up in Inwood, Iowa. Kooistra will now have the opportunity to go to Harvard University to study community development and housing policy at the Joint Center for Housing Studies and the Initiative on Social Enterprise. The Bush Leadership Fellowships provide from two to 18 months of support for learning experiences ranging from academic course work, internships or self-designed study programs or learning experiences.

Other Leadership Fellows named are from Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. The fellowships support full-time study to help individuals at mid-career prepare for greater leadership responsibilities and enhanced contributions to their communities.

The fellowships announced by the Bush Foundation in mid-June will fund study in a wide range of fields, including infectious disease, complimentary healing therapies, Dakota language and culture, international human rights and refugee women’s health.

Selection criteria include applicants’ personal qualities, past work experiences, career goals and the potential impact of their fellowships on their communities. Demonstrated leadership and evidence of leadership potential are essential qualities.

Since 1975, the Foundation has selected about 25 Leadership fellows per year from roughly 200 applicants.